Hello learned members, I have a small Bulova with Serial number F23355 which appears to be in pristine condition. I have been trying to start it up using Renata 394 with spacer ring but it refuses to start. If I tap the casing with either my finger or more effectively with a plastic screwdriver the second hand moves a few times then stops. If I keep tapping it then it will continue to move but sometimes erratically.
In reply to Best advice if a couple… by Geoff Baker
I don't know anything about Accutrons but, from looking at photos of other ones on here, this one looks like it's been tampered with already. It's appears to have an older tin can style transistor in it and the color code bars are missing on the resistor. And it looks like a diode has been put in it on top of the capacitor.
The tapping trick is actually authorized by the 214 Manual. Tap at 3:00 position, you will hear the coils reaction. If F-Flat Hum quickly fades, voltage is bad. Possible end of life coils. Electronics need to be checked as well. Correct battery is a 387s Negative side up. Make darn sure battery sleave is snuggly fitted into battery chamber. Now check you battery hatch closely. Is the positive poll making good contact with the battery? Is the battery hatch rubber grommet in good condition. Do not screw in Battery hatch super tightly. Now, check your stem / hands setter. Setter just lift up a millimeter hacking the movement and once hands set lower to start movement. I specialize in 214 Restorations questions: centralhsd@earthlink.net John V.